Logical Framework Approach in Social Projects
The project’s implementation depends on several external, uncontrollable conditions that could cause failure. The theoretical and methodological approach was based on logical positivism and quantitative methods. This allowed for the evaluation of indicators and related sources of verification.
The Planning Matrix (MPP) was the most characteristic instrument produced by the Logical Framework Approach (LFA). Formulated as a double-entry table, the MPP allowed for the comprehensive study of a project. This tool facilitates overall control when designing and developing the intervention.
The improved results soon attracted the interest of other agencies. In the 1970s, GTZ adopted the method and made significant efforts to improve it. Building upon the PPM, they added an additional line of activities to show the direct relationship between means and results. They also included cells to provide insight into the project’s budget.
Outside the PPB method, a reform affected the first phase of the project cycle (identification). Analyses incorporated participants, problems, objectives, and alternatives as other dimensions to consider in the design. The method was streamlined and systematized, serving to raise awareness and participation among project stakeholders.
Key Features of the LFA:
- As a planning instrument, the LFA facilitates decision-making.
- From a pragmatic standpoint, the LFA allows for integrating two approaches: construction and implementation, integrating both the design and formulation of the project and how monitoring and enforcement will be conducted.
- Regarding the creation and identification process, the LFA helps determine the project’s purpose, rationale, and the position of the actors involved.
- During implementation, the LFA expresses how activities are carried out and how results are monitored and reviewed.
- In the creation and execution process, the LFA is used to examine the project’s environment throughout the process.
- The LFA provides a common communication framework for its users.
Research Projects and Social Intervention
It is said that the LFA is a scientific method for carrying out projects, but there are serious doubts. Methodologically, the logical framework is a method that seeks the systematization of action rather than the production of knowledge open to criticism. Key concepts of the scientific method, such as hypothesis, background study, and verification sources, acquire a different meaning in this area than in scientific research. The logical framework is used to produce and perform orderly intervention projects, but this does not mean it is scientific.
Although transforming social reality is a generic shared goal that gives meaning to many research projects and social interventions (like LFA), the differences between their pragmatic ends are so significant that their logics of action differ. In social intervention, the project is situated between the observed social reality and the projected social reality. The project is the tool of transformation. Therefore, when planning by objectives, completing the project involves a direct modification of that reality.
The project enters the lives of the actors, relates them to transform their reality, and needs their action to take effect. The methods of collecting information, activities, and maintaining the project’s action depend heavily on the actors it may concern. Acceptance of the project by the subjects is an essential measure for intervention.
In the case of a social research project, the relationship with reality has to do with capturing knowledge or understanding. The project helps others (experts) better understand reality, which informs their later action plan. Thus, planned intervention need not be participatory. The investigation’s outcome may be a basis on which other lines are later created for action identified in plans or programs.
As it is just a tool for knowledge, its action upon reality can only occur if it is subsequently acted upon or if, during the research process, the actors recognize the results as a problem.